Boxing training apparatus

ABSTRACT

A training apparatus for a user comprising a simulated body element adapted to receive impact forces from a user, the body element having a head region, a mid-torso rib region and a lower-torso kidney region, each of the regions having a right section and a left section, each of the sections comprising at least one impact sensor adapted to sense an impact force to the section and to provide an impact signal as a function of the impact force, a processor communicating with the sensors, an input device adapted to obtain input from the user and to provide an input signal, the input device communicating with the processor, and the processor adapted to receive the impact signal and the input signal and to provide an output that is a function of the impact signal and the input signal.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 60/778,751, filed Mar. 3, 2006. The entire content ofsuch application is incorporated by reference herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a training apparatus and, moreparticularly, to a training device for a boxer or martial artist.

BACKGROUND ART

Training devices for boxers and martial artists are known in the priorart. In general, such training devices record some performanceparameters or challenge users with a programmed fight sequence and arecommonly large, cumbersome, stationary units that are not easilyportable. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,088,315, U.S. Pat. No. 4,401,303and U.S. Pat. No. 6,110,079 teach devices taking the form of a humanbody. These devices, however, fail to measure the force and frequency ofstrikes, and are difficult to move from one location to another. U.S.Pat. No. 4,974,833 teaches an apparatus with a pictorial representationof a human opponent, but also fails to measure the force and frequencyof strikes.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,464,622 teaches a boxing training apparatus in the formof a bag with a series of responsive zones. These zones, however, do notcorrespond to areas of a human opponent, do not have separate right andleft sections, and do not provide feedback regarding the force ofstrikes. U.S. Pat. No. 4,941,660 teaches a boxing training apparatus inthe form of a heavy bag that detects the force and frequency of strikes,but it does not differentiate between areas of the body, nor does itdistinguish strikes from the left or right. U.S. Pat. No. 4,534,557claims an apparatus that measures reaction time of a user's strikes, butit does not measure force or frequency. U.S. Pat. No. 4,108,428 and U.S.Pat. No. 4,565,366 teach devices that measure power, but they do notmeasure other pertinent parameters, such as frequency.

Some prior art references appear to measure force and frequency, butthey limit the user's movements, and thereby do not simulate combatperformance. For example, U.S. Pat. Application Publication No.2003/0181290 restricts the user's motion by allowing only straight-linepunches, and does not give the user freedom to move as he might orshould in combat.

Hence, it would be beneficial to provide a training apparatus thatinteracts with the user and allows for a wide variety of performanceparameters to be recorded, analyzed and displayed. It is specificallyintended that the disclosure of all United States Patent Officereferences cited herein be incorporated by reference herein in theirentirety.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

With parenthetical reference to the corresponding parts, portions, orsurfaces of the disclosed embodiment, merely for the purposes ofillustration and not way of limitation, the present invention providesan apparatus (15) for training an athlete, boxer, martial artist, orother user, comprising a simulated body element (16) adapted to receiveimpact forces from a user (17), and having a head region (18), amid-torso rib region (19) and a lower-torso kidney region (20), each ofthe regions having a right section (22, 24, 26) and a left section (21,23, 25), the head region having an additional center section (28) andthe mid-torso region having an additional center section (29), and eachof the sections comprising at least one impact sensor (52) adapted tosense an impact force to the section and to provide an impact signal asa function of the impact force, a processor (30) communicating with thesensors, an input device (31) adapted to obtain input from the user andto provide an input signal, the input device communicating with theprocessor (30), and the processor (30) adapted to receive the impactsignal and the input signal and to provide an output that is a functionof the impact signal and the input signal. The input may be selectedfrom a group consisting of user name, user gender, user height, userweight, number of rounds, length of rounds and length of time betweenrounds. The processor (30) may be further adapted to store the impactsignal and the input signal. The output may be selected from a groupconsisting of impact force as a function of time, impact force as afunction of section, degree of impact force, location of impact force,and average degree of impact forces. The apparatus may further comprisea display screen (32) communicating with the processor (30) and adaptedto display the output to the user, and the display of the output may bein a graphical form or in a tabular form. The apparatus may furthercomprise a camera (34, 37) communicating with the processor (30) andconfigured and arranged to photograph or film the user. The apparatusmay further comprise a printer (33) communicating with the processor(30) and adapted to print the output.

Accordingly, the general object of the present invention is to providean improved apparatus for training an athlete, boxer or martial artist.

Another object is to provide a training apparatus that may also be usedas an arcade game.

Another object is to provide a training apparatus with a simulated bodyelement adapted to receive impact forces from a user.

Another object is to provide a training apparatus with multiple sensorslocated in regions that are key contact points in boxing or martial artscombat.

Another object is to provide a training apparatus that can be programmedbased on the needs or physical aspects of the user.

Another object is to provide a training apparatus that can stabilize auser and allow him to concentrate on particular limbs or muscle groups.

Another object is to provide a training apparatus that allows the userto customize a training program to include a particular series orcombination of punches and/or kicks.

Another object is to provide a training apparatus that will monitor andreport the speed, force and accuracy of a user's performance of aparticular series or combination of punches and/or kicks.

Another object is to provide a training apparatus that will identify thetime at which the user begins to fatigue or weaken.

Another object is to provide a training apparatus having at least onecamera to provide visual feedback on the user's position and technique.

Another object is to provide a training apparatus having a processoradapted to receive user input, camera and sensor data, and furtheradapted to analyze the input and data to provide results.

Another object is to provide a training apparatus that will provideresults such as the force of a punch to a section as a function of time,force of impact as a function of section, the degree or strength ofimpact forces to sections or regions, the location of impact forces, andthe average degree or strength of all impact forces.

Another object is to provide a training apparatus with a screen todisplay graphical analysis of the results.

Another object is to provide a training apparatus having an apparatusadapted to print graphical analysis of the results.

Another object is to provide a training apparatus that allows the userto customize the reports and graphical analysis of the results.

These and other objects and advantages will become apparent from theforegoing and ongoing written specification, the drawings and theappended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side view of the preferred embodiment of the trainingapparatus.

FIG. 2 is a front view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a side view of the electronic storage cabinet shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a front view of the electronic storage cabinet shown in FIG.3.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the processing steps for the apparatusshown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a view of the user setup menu display.

FIG. 7 is a view of the weight class setup display.

FIG. 8 is a view of the pad setup display.

FIG. 9 is a view of the combination setup display.

FIG. 10 is a view of the user setup display for the arcade game mode.

FIG. 11 is a view of the training mode setup display.

FIG. 12 is a view of the user information input display.

FIG. 13 is an example of real-time graphical feedback from the arcadegame mode.

FIG. 14 is an example of real-time graphical feedback from the trainingmode.

FIG. 15 is an example of real-time graphical feedback from the trainingmode.

FIG. 16 is an example of summary graphical feedback from the arcade gamemode.

FIG. 17 is an example of summary graphical feedback from the trainingmode.

FIG. 18 is an example of summary tabular feedback.

FIG. 19 are examples of graphical feedback.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

At the outset, it should be clearly understood that like referencenumerals are intended to identify the same structural elements, portionsor surfaces consistently throughout the several drawing figures, as suchelements, portions or surfaces may be further described or explained bythe entire written specification, of which this detailed description isan integral part. Unless otherwise indicated, the drawings are intendedto be read (e.g., cross-hatching, arrangement of parts, proportion,degree, etc.) together with the specification, and are to be considereda portion of the entire written description of this invention. As usedin the following description, the terms “horizontal”, “vertical”,“left”, “right”, “up” and “down”, as well as adjectival and adverbialderivatives thereof (e.g., “horizontally”, “rightwardly”, “upwardly”,etc.), simply refer to the orientation of the illustrated structure asthe particular drawing figure faces the reader. Similarly, the terms“inwardly” and “outwardly” generally refer to the orientation of asurface relative to its axis of elongation, or axis of rotation, asappropriate.

Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to FIGS. 1-2thereof, the present invention provides an improved athletic trainingapparatus, the presently preferred embodiment of which is generallyindicated at 15. As shown in FIGS. 1-2, training apparatus 15 hassimulated body element 16 having three distinct regions corresponding toparticular regions of a human opponent: head region 18, mid-torso or ribregion 19, and lower-torso or kidney region 20. Each region in turn hasleft section 21, 23, 25, and right section 22, 24, 26 respectively, forreceiving impact forces from any direction. In addition, the head regionhas center section 28, and the mid-torso region has center section 29.As also shown in FIG. 1, apparatus 15 generally includes processor 30that is connected to keyboard 31, or other mechanism for data entry,cameras 34, 37 for recording the user, screen 32 for displaying inputchoices, graphical feedback, photographs and video, and printer 33 forproducing printed reports.

The preferred embodiment includes several supporting structures.Simulated body element 16 is attached to support 35. Support 35 isvertically adjustable to accommodate different heights. Camera 34 issupported by arm 38, which is in turn supported by post 36. Post 36 maybe removable, and further functions to support screen 32. In thepreferred embodiment, apparatus 15 is constructed of lightweightmaterials making it easy to move between locations. Platform 41 supportsthe entire apparatus 15, including posts 35 and 36, and furthercomprises wheels severally indicated at 42. Wheels 42 may be removable.It is contemplated, however, that the apparatus may be permanentlyinstalled in one location.

Brace 43 is a supporting structure meant for supporting user 17. User 17can lean against brace 43 or secure her body to brace 43 duringtraining. User 17 can then concentrate on working particular limbs ormuscle groups while keeping the torso stationary. This feature isbeneficial for a user learning new techniques or conditioning a specificarea of the body. Brace 43 is vertically and horizontally adjustable toaccommodate users of different heights and arm lengths. Brace 43 isremovable, so the user can operate the device without brace 43.

Processor 30 and printer 33 are housed inside storage cabinet 53.Cabinet 53 is presented in detail in FIGS. 3-4. Cabinet 53 providesstorage for paper 54 used by printer 33. Various tools and parts may bestored in storage areas severally indicated at 55. Processor 30 utilizespower from power source 56. Processor 30 may also receive data fromsummation amplifier 58 and electronic service connector block 59. Themodel 482M66 summation amplifier manufactured by PCB Piezotronics, Inc.may be used in the preferred embodiment. The model BNC-2111 electronicservice connector block manufactured by National Instruments may be usedin the preferred embodiment.

In a preferred embodiment, apparatus 15 may be used for training aboxer, kickboxer, martial artist or other athlete. The apparatus mayalso be used for recreational purposes. For example, the apparatus mayfunction as an arcade game. The training apparatus and arcade gameapparatus are substantially similar. If the apparatus serves as anarcade game, it may be adapted to receive payment for use. Otherdifferences between training and arcade variations are noted whereapplicable.

FIG. 5 shows the various input and output variables for apparatus 15. Asshown in FIG. 5, apparatus 15 has a number of input and output variablesthat may be selected. Owner set-up 201 allows for the selection ofeither an arcade or training mode, the setting of a default roundlength, the setting of a default rest length, a selection to clearrecords and a selection to set arcade records. In pad set-up 200, arcadepad names are selected, training right handed boxer pad names areselected and training left handed pad names are selected. In weightclass set-up 202, male weight classes and female weight classes may beselected. Arcade main menu 202 is provided, which allows for setting theboxer's height, the boxer's name, the boxer's gender and the boxer'sweight, and displaying the boxer's weight class. Training main menu 204allows for selecting the boxer, setting up a new boxer, selecting therounds in combo training desired, setting the number of rounds, andsetting the length of the rounds. Boxer set-up menu 205 allows forsetting the boxer's name, the boxer's weight, the boxer's height,setting whether the boxer is left or right handed, setting the boxer'sgender, and displaying the boxer's weight class. Arcade round display206 Shows punch data, round number, time remaining, the rounds maximumpunch, live punch data, the boxer's name and the boxer's weight class.Training round display 207 shows punch data, round number, timeremaining, the rounds maximum punch, live punch data, the boxer's nameand the boxer's weight class. Combo-display 208 allows for selecting acombo, selecting the number of repetitions, showing the number of combosremaining, showing time, showing live punch data, showing the boxer'sname and showing the boxer's weight class. Combo set-up 211 allows forselecting punch combinations, selecting pad choices for combinations,and selecting a righty-lefty user. Arcade round summary 209 shows theround number, the rest time left, the rounds maximum punch, punchsummary data, the boxer's name and the boxer's weight class, and alsoallows for printing the arcade data. Training round summary 210 showsthe round number, the rest time left, the round maximum punch, the punchsummary data, the boxer's name, the boxer's weight class and weightclass records. It also allows for saving training data and printingtraining data.

Thus, for example, during setup of the apparatus, the user may selectarcade or training mode, set the default length of each round, choosethe default length of rest between rounds, clear the data from previoususers, and set the length of rounds for arcade use. The user may chooseto proceed to a training main menu, an arcade main menu, or continuesetup via the weight class setup screen or the pad setup screen. Thetraining main menu further allows the user to proceed to the boxer setupmenu or to a combination display and setup. Both the arcade mode andtraining mode provide particular output during the rounds and at the endof rounds. These input and output variables are discussed in detailbelow.

Body Element and Sensors

As discussed above, the apparatus 15 comprises simulated body element 16that is broken into three regions 18, 19, 20 and eight sections 21-29.Head region 18, mid-torso region 19, and lower torso region 20correspond to the areas on the body of importance in boxing and aremeant to simulate a human opponent. In turn, sections 21-26 of eachregion correspond to the right and left side of a human body. Inaddition, the head region and mid-torso region have a center section 28,29. It is contemplated that body element 16 may have additional regionsand sections. Body element 16 serves as a substitute for a heavy bag orother training equipment because it allows the user to punch, kick, orotherwise strike as he normally would when fighting another person.There is no limitation on the direction or speed of the user's limbs sopunches or kicks can come from any angle.

In a preferred embodiment, sections 21-29 have an outwardly facing softstrike pad, severally indicated at 50 a-50 h, that is adapted to receivepunches or kicks from a user. An underlying aluminum plate connected toa sensor 52 a-52 h are provided below strike pads 50 a-50 h. Sensor 52a-52 h are each in turn connected to processor 30 through supportingstructure 35 and 41. Sensors 52 a-52 h record the force of each impactto the strike pad 50 a-50 h, and communicate that force to processor 30for subsequent analysis. It is contemplated that each strike pad mayhave more than one sensor. In the preferred embodiment, impact forcesmay be punches, kicks or other strikes from a user, such as a cross,hook, jab, uppercut, roundhouse, or other punches or kicks.

User Input

The preferred embodiment of the present invention includes an inputdevice 31, adapted to receive user input, and screen 32 to displaychoices from which the user may select. Processor 30 is programmed toaccept input from a user through input device 31. Processor 30 providesseveral menus from which the user can make selections to personalize hisuse. These menus appear on screen 32 throughout setup and use of theapparatus.

Although computer screen 30 and keyboard 31 are shown in FIG. 1 as thedisplay and input device in this embodiment, it is contemplated that atouch screen could be used as an alternative. The touch screen woulddisplay choices for selection and allow each user to manipulatevariables or enter information. While a conventional keyboard is shown,it is also contemplated that the keyboard may be specially configuredfor the contemplated functionality. Other alternatives may include amouse, an apparatus adapted to read a data storage device, such as amagnetized card reader or disk drive, or buttons on the processoritself. Although only one keyboard is shown in FIG. 1, it iscontemplated that the present invention could include more than oneinput device. For example, an input device may be centrally located forconvenient user access, while another input device may be locatedelsewhere for convenient access by a trainer during the user's session.

The preferred embodiment also includes one or more cameras 34 and 37.Camera 34 is positioned above the user to provide one perspective, whilecamera 37 is positioned to the side of the user to provide anotherperspective. Although two perspectives are shown in FIG. 1, it iscontemplated that the apparatus may be used without any cameras or mayhave one or more than two cameras. Cameras 34, 37 take photographs orvideo of the user in particular positions throughout the session.Processor 30 is adapted to store and analyze photographic or videofeedback from cameras 34, 37. Display screen 32 is adapted to displayphotographic or video feedback from cameras 34, 37.

As shown in FIG. 6, during the initial setup of the apparatus, user 17must first choose from menu 65 whether to operate the apparatus inarcade mode or training mode. If the user chooses to operate theapparatus in arcade mode, menu screen 66 prompts the user to select thelength of each round, the number of rounds, and length of rest timebetween rounds. The user can also reset punch records, or clear the datasaved on the processor from previous use. These preferences areprogrammed prior to use in arcade mode so subsequent users of the arcadegame will not have the flexibility to extend play without access to thesetup menu screen 66. For example, the initial user may designate themaximum number of rounds per payment if the apparatus is used as anarcade game. The initial user can also restrict access to setup menuscreen 66 if the apparatus is used as an arcade game.

If a user elects to operate the apparatus in training mode, she is thenprompted to make setup choices on menu screen 68. The user must selectthe length of each training round, the number of rounds, and the lengthof rest time between rounds. Unlike the arcade mode, training modeallows a user to change these preferences throughout use, as indicatedin FIG. 11. The user can also reset punch records on setup menu screen66 or 68, which clears the data saved on the processor from previoususe.

Following the initial setup menu 66, 68, the user may customize weightclasses or pad names by proceeding through menu screen 69. Displayscreen 70, shown in FIG. 7, allows the user to designate ranges andnames for weight classes. The default weight classes are based on IBF &WBA weight classes for 2005. Since boxing weight classes change, thisfeature can be disabled or updated. The default classes are as follows:

Men's:

-   -   Strawweight/Mini Flyweight: Up to 105 lb    -   Junior Flyweight: 105.01-108 lb    -   Flyweight: 108.01-112 lb    -   Super Flyweight/Junior Bantam Weight: 112.01-115 lb    -   Bantamweight: 115.01-118 lb    -   Super Bantamweight/Junior Featherweight: 118.01-122 lb    -   Featherweight: 122.01-126 lb    -   Super Featherweight/Junior Lightweight: 126.01-130 lb    -   Lightweight: 130.01-135 lb    -   Super Lightweight/Junior Welterweight: 135.01-140 lb    -   Welterweight: 140.01-147 lb    -   Super Welterweight/Junior Middleweight: 147.01-154 lb    -   Middleweight: 154.01-160 lb    -   Super Middleweight: 160.01-168 lb    -   Light heavyweight: 168.01-175 lb    -   Cruiserweight: 175.01-200 lb    -   Heavyweight: over 200 lb

Women's:

-   -   Strawweight: Up to 102 lb    -   Mini Flyweight: Up to 105 lb    -   Junior Flyweight: 105.01-108 lb    -   Flyweight: 108.01-112 lb    -   Super Flyweight/Junior Bantam Weight: 112.01-115 lb    -   Bantamweight: 115.01-118 lb    -   Super Bantamweight/Junior Featherweight: 118.01-122 lb    -   Featherweight: 122.01-126 lb    -   Super Featherweight/Junior Lightweight: 126.01-130 lb    -   Lightweight: 130.01-135 lb    -   Super Lightweight/Junior Welterweight: 135.01-140 lb    -   Welterweight: 140.01-147 lb    -   Junior Middleweight: 147.01-154 lb    -   Middleweight: 154.01-160 lb    -   Super Middleweight: 160.01-168 lb    -   Light heavyweight: 168.01-175 lb    -   Heavyweight: over 175 lb

In addition to customizing weight class ranges and names, user 17 cancustomize the names of sections 21-29 on simulated body element 16. Asshown in FIG. 8, the user can designate names for sections 21-29 on menuscreen 71, 72 and 73. The user may input any name for each section, ashe is not limited to predetermined name options. These names are usedfor programming combinations and analyzing performance. The arcade padsetup menu screen 71 provides eight fields for naming sections 21-29.For example, a punch to section 21 may be called a “high right”. In apreferred embodiment, the arcade pad names need not be as detailed asthe training pad names, because an arcade game user is not likely torequire as sophisticated an analysis as an athlete in training. Trainingsetup menu screens 72 and 73 provide for more particular names specificto a right handed or left handed user.

A user can also program a combination of punches that he desires toperform and subsequently analyze. As shown in FIG. 9, the user selectshandedness and chooses a sequence of moves from the list he just createdon menu screens 71, 72, or 73 shown in FIG. 8.

Following initial setup the user may provide input prior to each use ofthe apparatus. This input is optional and serves to further personalizea training session. If the user is operating the apparatus in arcademode, he is prompted with the arcade main menu screen as show in FIG.10. The user may input his name, height, gender, and weight on menuscreen 74. For more reliable feedback, users are categorized in variousweight classes. This embodiment provides for input of the user's weightand subsequently categorizes the user into weight classes. Note thatmenu screen 74 does not allow an arcade game user to customize roundlength, number of rounds, or rest time between rounds. As discussed, inthe preferred embodiment, such customization can only occur duringinitial setup using menu screen 66 as shown in FIG. 6.

A similar main menu, as shown in FIG. 11, requests user input prior toevery use of the apparatus in training mode. By utilizing menu screen 76shown in FIG. 11, a user has the option to select a name from menu 79.The preferences for each name, as entered on setup menu screen 80 inFIG. 12, will automatically load prior to training. Alternately, a usermay save his preferences on a data storage device such as a magnetizedcard or computer disk. The present invention may include a user inputdevice such as a card reader or disk drive capable of retrieving andloading the data stored on the device. Again, this information willautomatically load prior to training.

If the user does not have stored preferences, he can choose the “NewBoxer” option 77 as shown in FIG. 11, which will lead him to menu screen80 as seen in FIG. 12. As discussed, this invention allows each user tostore his preferences for future use. As seen in FIG. 12, a user canenter his name, height, weight, gender, handedness, and combinations,and he can save this input to expedite subsequent training sessions.

Unlike a user of the arcade mode, a user of the training mode mustdecide whether to engage in rounds of training or practice particularcombinations. This choice is made on menu screen 76 in FIG. 11. Alsounlike a user of the arcade mode, a user of the training mode may adjustround length, number of rounds, and rest time between rounds prior toeach use on menu screen 78, as shown in FIG. 11. A user of the trainingmode need not return to the initial setup screen to make these changes.

Analysis and Display of Results

Processor 30 of the preferred embodiment is programmed to performseveral functions besides the setup functions discussed above. Processor30 is programmed to receive impact force data from the sensors connectedto sections 21-29 on body element 16. Processor 30 then analyzes thesignals from the sensors, and provides an output with the results onscreen 32 or printer 33. Processor 30 is also capable of storing inputand data. As used herein, “input” includes information received from theuser via an input device 31 and video or photographs from camera 34 orcamera 37. As used herein, “data” includes information received fromsensors 52 a-52 h of sections 21-29.

Sensors 52 a-52 h record the force of each strike and processor 30analyzes the force and frequency data to report the results. As usedherein, “results” are the product of the processor's analysis and may bethe subject of reports or used to critique user's performance.

Results may include the impact force as a function of time, impact forceas a function of location, degree of impact force, location of impactforce, and average degree of all impact forces. In the preferredembodiment, the degree of impact force is provided in pounds per punch.The results may further include the user's most forceful punch, leastforceful punch, and the time at which the user beings to exhibitfatigue.

Reports are available in graphic and tabular form, as indicated in FIGS.13-18, and as real-time monitoring or as a report following the user'ssession. In addition, reports may include photographic displaysutilizing data from cameras 34, 37. Before a round begins, the user mayselect the graph she wishes to view on display screen 32 during theround, or a default view will be programmed for her.

Results from operation of apparatus 15 in arcade mode may be displayedon screen 32 in real time, as seen in FIG. 13. The display in FIG. 13reports time remaining in the round 84, the number of the current roundin which the user is participating 85 , the force of the last punch 86,the force of the strongest punch 88, the user's name 89 and weight class90. In addition, the impact force as a function of time and location isdisplayed graphically 81-83. In FIG. 13, the impact force as a functionof time is displayed 81, 82 for two particular sections 22, 23. A roundtotal graph 83 demonstrates all impact forces as a function of time.Although results for only two sections 22, 23 are displayed in thisembodiment, it is contemplated that results for one or more sections canalso be displayed as an alternative. Results from each section may beviewed on an individual graph, or results from several sections may beplotted together and differentiated by color or other variable. The usercan customize the display by choosing to view feedback from as few asone section or as many as eight sections. The section names correspondto specific sections 21-29 on body element 16. As discussed, the usercan designate these names on pad setup menu screen 71, as shown in FIG.8.

Real time results for a training session are displayed in a similarfashion, as demonstrated in FIG. 14. Like the arcade mode, the trainingmode results comprise remaining time 98, round number 99, force of lastpunch 100, force of strongest punch 101, user name 102 and weight class103. In FIG. 14, the impact force as a function of time is shown 91-96for six sections 21-26. A round total graph 97 demonstrates all impactforces as a function of time. Although results for six sections aredisplayed in FIG. 14, it is contemplated that results for one or moresections may be displayed as an alternative. Results from each sectionmay be viewed on an individual graph, or results from several sectionsmay be plotted together and differentiated by color or other variable.The user can customize the display by choosing to view feedback from asfew as one section or as many as eight sections. The section namescorrespond to specific sections 21-29 on body element 16. As discussed,the user can designate these names on pad setup menu screen 72-73 shownin FIG. 8.

FIG. 15 shows real time analysis of a training combination. Asdiscussed, a user can program a combination of punches that he desiresto perform and subsequently analyze. As shown in FIG. 9, the userselects handedness and chooses a sequence of moves from the list he justcreated on menu screens 71, 72, or 73 as shown in FIG. 8. The user maychoose an unlimited number of moves, although only five are show in FIG.9. The display in FIG. 15 reports the number of remaining repetitions ofthe combination 104, the user name 105 and weight class 106, the currentcombination 108, and total number of repetitions the user intends tocomplete 109. The display also reports the speed of the currentrepetition 116, the average time it takes the user to complete thecurrent combination 117, and the user's fastest time to complete thecurrent combination 118. The display also reports the force of theuser's strongest punch in the current combination 119, the average forceof the strongest punches of the user in all attempts of the combination120, and the force of the user's strongest punch in all attempts of thecombination 121. In addition, the display reports the average force ofthe user's punches in the current combination 122, the average force ofall punches of the user in all attempts of the combination 123, and thehighest average force of the user from all attempts of the combination124. Finally, FIG. 15 displays graphic feedback similar to that in FIG.13 and FIG. 14. The impact force as a function of time is shown 110-115for six sections 21-26. Although results for just six sections aredisplayed in FIG. 15, it is contemplated that results one or moresections may be displayed as an alternative. Results from each sectionmay be viewed on an individual graph 110-115, or results from severalsections may be plotted together and differentiated by color or othervariable. The user can customize the display by choosing to viewfeedback from as few as one section or as many as eight sections. Thesection names correspond to specific sections 21-29 on body element 16.As discussed, the user can designate these names on pad setup menuscreen 72-73 shown in FIG. 8.

In addition to real time reporting, apparatus 15 also provides summaryfeedback. The summary reports may appear graphically or in tabular form.They may appear on display screen 32 at the end of a round or at the endof a training or arcade session, or they may be printed on printer 33.Processor 30 is adapted to store all results, analysis, and reports forlater retrieval.

The reports of results serve as a training tool by highlighting theuser's strengths and weaknesses. For example, if the reports indicatethat the user's least forceful or weakest punches are directed at themid-torso section, the user may utilize this information to direct histraining towards increasing the force of his mid-torso punch. Thereports further identify the amount of time between a user's strikes.Therefore, a user can determine how fast and accurate his combinationsare, again allowing him to adjust his training to focus on combinationsthat are not as fast and accurate as desired. Since part of a boxer'straining involves studying an opponent's technique, a boxer should knowhis opponent's weaknesses. The present invention allows the boxer toconcentrate on his opponent's weak areas and provides reliable feedbackon the boxer's progress.

FIG. 16 provides an example of arcade round summary reporting shown ondisplay screen 32, and available for printing on printer 33 by selectingprint option 146 on the display screen. This display includes theremaining rest time between rounds 125, the number of the round justcompleted 126, and the user name 128 and weight class 129. The displayalso includes the number of punches in the round just completed 133 therecord number of punches for the current weight class at the same timeduring the same round number 134, and the name of the user holding thatrecord 135. This display also includes the force of the user's strongestpunch during the round just completed 136, the force of the strongestpunch of all users in the current weight class and in the round numberjust completed 138, and the name of the user in the current weight classwho punched with the greatest force during the round number justcompleted 139. This display also includes the average force of all thecurrent user's punches for the round just completed 140, and the highestaverage force of punches for the current weight class during the sameround 141, in addition to the name of the user in the current weightclass with the strongest average force of punches for the round numberjust completed 142. This display also includes the number of punches perminute for the current user in the round just completed 143 and therecord highest number of punches per minute in for all users the currentweight class in the round number just completed 144, in addition to thename of the user holding the record 145. The summary display includesgraphical data as well as the numerical feedback just discussed. Theimpact force as a function of time is displayed 130-131 for twoparticular sections 21, 22. A round total graph 132 demonstrates allimpact forces as a function of time. Although results for only twosections are displayed in FIG. 16, it is contemplated that results forone or more sections may be displayed as an alternative. Again, resultsfrom each section may be viewed on an individual graph 130-131, orresults from several sections may be plotted together and differentiatedby color or other variable 132. The user can customize the display bychoosing to view feedback from as few as one section or as many as eightsections. The section names correspond to specific sections 21-29 onbody element 16. As discussed, the user can designate these names on padsetup menu screen 71 shown in FIG. 8.

FIG. 17 provides another example of summary reporting shown on displayscreen 32, available for printing on printer 33. A user may customizesummary reports by choosing which results to display. The display inFIG. 17 includes the remaining rest time between rounds 148, the numberof the round just completed 149, and the user name 150 and weight class151. The display also includes the number of punches by the user in theround just completed 160, the current user's record number of punchesfor all attempts of the round number just completed 161, and the recordnumber of punches for all users in the current weight class in the roundnumber just completed 162. This display also includes the force of thestrongest punch by the user in the round just completed 163, the forceof the strongest punch of the current user in all attempts of the roundnumber just completed 164, and the record force of all punches for theusers in the current weight class in the round number just completed165. This display also includes the average force of all punches of theuser for the round just completed 166, and the highest average force ofpunches of the user in previous attempts of the round just completed168, in addition to the strongest average force of punches for users inthe current weight class in the round number just completed 169. Thisdisplay also includes the number of punches per minute for the currentuser in the round just completed 170 and the highest number of punchesper minute in the user's previous rounds, in addition to the highestnumber of punches per minute in the user's previous attempts of theround just completed 171, and the record number of punches per minutefor all users in the current weight class in the round number justcompleted 172. The summary display includes graphical data as well asnumerical feedback just discussed. The impact force as a function oftime is shown for all sections 21-29. A round total graph 159demonstrates all impact forces as a function of time. Although resultsfor six sections are displayed in this embodiment 152-157, it iscontemplated that results for fewer sections can also be displayed as analternative. Results from each section may be viewed on an individualgraph 152-157, or results from several sections may be plotted togetherand differentiated by color or other variable 159. The user cancustomize the display by choosing to view feedback from as few as onesection or as many as eight sections. The section names correspond tospecific sections 21-29 on body element 16. As discussed, the user candesignate these names on pad setup menu screen 72-73 shown in FIG. 8.

The present invention is capable of tabular reporting, as seen in FIG.18. Table 173 presents force and time data. Column 178 reports the time.Column 179 reports the force of all punches at each time. Column 180reports the force of all punches received on the left side of bodyelement 16, or sections 22, 24, and 26, at the corresponding time inColumn 178. Column 181 reports the force of all punches received on theright side of body element 16, or section 21, 23, and 25. Column 182reports the force of all punches received on the left and right side ofthe head area, or sections 21 and 22. Column 183 reports the force ofall punches received on the left and right side of the mid-torso area,or sections 23 and 24. Column 184 reports the force of all punchesreceived on the lower torso area, or sections 25 and 26. In addition tothe tabular report, these data are graphically depicted in graphs 174,175, and 176 of FIG. 19. Graph 175 depicts all punches in round 1 as afunction of time. Graph 175 depicts the force of all punches in round 1as a function of time and location per side. Graph 176 depicts the forceof all punches in round two as a function of time and location perregion. FIG. 18 further demonstrates the variety of analyses processor30 is capable of performing.

Other reports may include the following results:

Overall Data Summary

-   -   Total Number of Punches    -   Strongest Punch    -   Weakest Punch    -   Average Pounds Per Punch    -   Average Time Between Punches

Specific Hit Spot Summary

-   -   Upper Right        -   Strongest Punch: Xlbs occurring at time X        -   Weakest Punch: Xlbs occurring at time X    -   Upper Left        -   Strongest Punch: Xlbs occurring at time X        -   Weakest Punch: Xlbs occurring at time X    -   Middle Right        -   Strongest Punch: Xlbs occurring at time X        -   Weakest Punch: Xlbs occurring at time X    -   Middle Left        -   Strongest Punch: Xlbs occurring at time X        -   Weakest Punch: Xlbs occurring at time X    -   Lower Right        -   Strongest Punch: Xlbs occurring at time X        -   Weakest Punch: Xlbs occurring at time X    -   Lower Left        -   Strongest Punch: Xlbs occurring at time X        -   Weakest Punch: Xlbs occurring at time X

Strongest Punch Summary

-   -   Force: X    -   Total Number of Punches Occurring at Force X: Y    -   Location and Time of Punches Occurring at that Force (i.e. Upper        Right @    -   Time X:XX, Lower Left @ Time X:XX):

Weakest Punch Summary

-   -   Force: X    -   Total Number of Punches Occurring at Force X: Y    -   Location and Time of Punches Occurring at that Force (i.e. Upper        Right @ Time X:XX, Lower Left @ Time X:XX):

The user can also print a report of summary statistics, or these summarystatistics can be saved and accessed later.

Following the user's training session, the user can toggle between 8different preset graphs and select a custom view:

-   -   1. Hit Output {Default Graph} (See FIG. 17: Graph “Date Output        Round 1”)    -   2. Right Side v. Left Side (See FIG. 17: Graph “Data Output        Round 1”)    -   3. Head v. Middle Torso v. Lower Torso (See FIG. 17: Graph “Data        Output Round 1 Head v. Middle Torso v. Lower Torso”)    -   4. Hits on Right Side Only    -   5. Hits on Left Side Only    -   6. Hits to Head Only    -   7. Hits to Middle Torso Only    -   8. Hits to Lower Torso Only    -   9. A custom graph will allow the user to select from the eight        different sections, choosing as few as one section to as many as        eight sections.

The user can toggle between rounds or view multiple rounds on one graph,where each round is shown in a different color on the same graph. Asshown in FIG. 18, graph 175 displays the force of right handed punchesin one color and the force of left handed punches in another, both as afunction of time. The user may choose to print graphs or may save thedata to view later.

The present invention expressly contemplates that many changes andmodifications may be made. Therefore, while several preferred forms ofthe boxing training apparatus have been shown and described, and severalmodifications thereof discussed, persons skilled in this art willreadily appreciate that various additional changes and modifications maybe made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

1. A training apparatus comprising: a simulated body element adapted toreceive impact forces from a user; said body element having a headregion, a mid-torso rib region and a lower-torso kidney region; each ofsaid regions having a right section and a left section and each of saidhead region and said mid-torso region having a center section; each ofsaid sections comprising at least one impact sensor adapted to sense animpact force to said section and to provide an impact signal as afunction of said impact force; a processor communicating with saidsensors; an input device adapted to obtain input from said user and toprovide an input signal; said input device communicating with saidprocessor; and said processor adapted to receive said impact signal andsaid input signal and to provide an output that is a function of saidimpact signal and said input signal.
 2. The apparatus set forth in claim1, wherein said input is selected from a group consisting of user name,user gender, user height, user weight, number of rounds, length ofrounds and length of time between rounds.
 3. The apparatus set forth inclaim 1, wherein said processor is further adapted to store said impactsignal and said input signal.
 4. The apparatus set forth in claim 1,wherein said output is selected from a group consisting of impact forceas a function of time, impact force as a function of section, degree ofimpact force, location of impact force, and average degree of impactforces.
 5. The apparatus set forth in claim 1, and further comprising adisplay screen communicating with said processor and adapted to displaysaid output to said user.
 6. The apparatus set forth in claim 5, whereinsaid display of said output is in a graphical form or in a tabular form.7. The apparatus set forth in claim 1, and further comprising a cameracommunicating with said processor and configured and arranged tophotograph or film said user.
 8. The apparatus set forth in claim 1, andfurther comprising a printer communicating with said processor andadapted to print said output.
 9. The apparatus set forth in claim 1, andfurther comprising a frame supporting said body element.
 10. Theapparatus set forth in claim 9, wherein said frame comprises a platformadapted to support said user.
 11. The apparatus set forth in claim 10,wherein said frame comprises an element adapted to support said userwhen said user is on said platform.
 12. The apparatus set forth in claim1, wherein said input comprises a combination of punches.